Vines
are a versatile group of plants that add color, flare and function to
Mississippi gardens. What would we do without vines to climb garden trellises,
patio pergolas and chain link fences? Think of all those landscape structures
(some not so pretty) that we are able to hide or enhance with one or
two graceful vines. Vines are not only extraordinarily functional, but
are also exceedingly attractive. Some flower profusely, others are pleasantly
fragrant in bloom. The less floriferous types are beautifully evergreen.

One highly prized vine for Southern gardens is the Confederate or Star
Jasmine. Confederate Jasmine (Trachelospermum jasminoides) is an attractive
vine that puts it all together. It is ever (lustrous) green with star-shaped
and highly fragrant flowers. The blooms are creamy white with slightly
twisted petals. What more could we ask? It can be used to cover most
any type of landscape structure as long as support is provided. It's
also used effectively as a groundcover. Most recently, I found it being
used to adorn breezeway posts at a medical facility. The covered posts
were of painted metal and the jasmine vines were discreetly and cleverly
supported from above. The jasmine warmed and welcomed guests to the cool
brick and stone structure.

Confederate
Jasmine is hardy in zone 8 where it thrives in moist, fertile, well-drained
soil. Partial shade is a great location for best growth and flowering
although it will grow in full sun or shade. It has an aggressive nature,
but is not difficult to control. Each vine may grow to 20 feet in length
or to a depth of 12 to 18 inches as a ground cover. Confederate will
not make as thick a groundcover as its
"cousin" Asiatic Jasmine (Trachelospermum asiaticum), but is
sometimes added to an Asiatic Jasmine planting for fragrance.

Pruning is a practice that Confederate Jasmine benefits from and can
be used to keep it in good shape. Since it blooms on last year's growth,
wait until after flowering (April-May) to trim. Hedge shears may be used.
Trimmings can be used to start new Confederate Jasmine plants. June and
July are reported to be the best times for propagation, but it may root
most any time of the year. When cut, Confederate Jasmine leaks a white,
milky substance much like a poinsettia. This is one good way to assist
in identifying this vine.

Cultivars of Confederate Jasmine may be found in the marketplace with
names like 'Bruce Martin', 'Bronze Beauty', 'Madison', 'Silver Mist'
(spotted and blotched white) and 'Yellow' (yellow flowers). There's always
a place for a vine in any landscape. If not, we can make a suitable sight
incredibly easy and what better choice is there for Mississippi gardens
than Confederate Jasmine? Happy gardening!